Tribal Tattoo Designs -
Where Did They Come From?

The tribal tattoo designs are all the rage these days, but do you know the ancient origins of these beautiful tattoos?  These tattoo designs date back to the days of the Celts, Native Americans, and even the days of the Vikings!

Who Were These People?

Most of these people and their cultures were based on paganism or believers of Earth-based faith systems.  It appeared that these cultures were much more open to the idea of getting tattoos than most other faith systems.   These peoples had a healthy respect for nature, and when they did get a tattoo, they had a preference toward tribal tattoo designs and art.

Tribal Tattoo Designs from the Past

The tribal tattoo designs were very popular in ancient cultures, such as the Celts.  These designs were not taken lightly, as a matter of fact, they were taken quite seriously.  These designs were usually "inked" in a blue color because their source of ink was derived from the woad plant.  The patterns they used mimicked the designs prevalent in nearly all aspects of their lives.  They emblazoned these designs on their weapons, cooking utensils, and even sacred objects.  

It was these tribal tattoo designs that were considered to be powerful magic.  To have a tattoo of a sacred symbol was to take the symbol’s magic and place it permanently upon their bodies.  Tattoos were not only on limbs, but placed all over the body, especially the head.   Even feminine tribal tattoo patterns were elaborate and adorned the bodies of the women in many of these cultures.

Today's Tribal Tattoos

A tribal tree tattoo or tattoo of a tribal star links back to the days of these ancient cultures.  Of course, many of the popular tribal tattoos of today, like tribal lion tattoo art, are the creations of modern tattoo artists.  While these designs are modern in nature, most have preserved the original "feel" of the ancient tattoo patterns.

Some of the today's most popular tribal tattoos include tribal dragon tattoo designs, the tribal butterfly tattoo designs, and tribal lion tattoo art.   Of course, there are many variations of these with roses, wolves, birds and even the sun.

So, if you are looking for tattoo designs and a tribal tattoo is at the top of your list, why not check out one of the online tattoo galleries to see what options are available to you.  Whether you desire a tribal arm tattoo, upper back tribal tattoo, or one for any other part of your body, a visit to a gallery can open up your eyes to the possibilities.  Why not link your tattoo selection to the ancient cultures of the past and feel its powerful "magic"!